Sustainability

New York State Climate Smart Communities Certified Silver Opens in new windowThe Town of Bedford is proud of its unwavering commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship as we continue to move towards a greener and more sustainable future. 

Recognizing the urgent need to address climate change and protect our natural resources, Bedford has an ambitious Climate Action Plan to reduce emissions by 80% by 2030. To ensure a thriving and sustainable community for present and future generations, the Town of Bedford is working towards these goals, constantly striving to:

  • work in partnership with a town-wide coalition, Bedford 2030, on both municipal and community climate action initiatives;
  • participate in statewide programs and obtain grants to augment our clean energy and waste reduction work;
  • decarbonize the town's buildings, vehicles and equipment by transitioning to electric;
  • install clean solutions like solar panels, EV charging stations, heat pumps;
  • promote clean transportation with covered bike racks and bus shelter, enhancing bike/walk areas, encouraging public transit
  • pass policies such as the Leaf Blower Seasonal Ban, Dark Skies Ordinance, Community Choice Aggregation, Curbside Single-Stream Recycling, Tree Permit, Stretch Energy Code, Green Procurement Policy, Monarch Pledge, and more   
  • provides services such as the Town Recycling Center, Beaver Dam yard waste facility, Take it Or Leave it Shed (TIOLI)
  • engages town committees in conservation and preservation work such as the Conservation Board, the Open Space Acquisition Committee, Wetlands Control Commission, Invasive Vine Removal, and the Tree Advisory Board;
  • co-hosts programs and events, and encourages residents to take proactive steps to decarbonize, reduce waste, save energy, and conserve land.

On the left navigation bar you may read more about these actions and goals, read about projects of note and learn how to get involved in sustainability in Bedford.